# Draft California 2012 Integrated Report( 303(d) List/305(b) Report)

# Supporting Information

## Regional Board 6 - Lahontan Region

Water Body Name: | Virginia Creek
Water Body ID: | CAR6304005220011130105548
Water Body Type: | River & Stream

DECISION ID | 31862 | Region 6
Virginia Creek

Pollutant: | Chloride
Final Listing Decision: | Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: | New Decision
Revision Status | Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: | Pollutant
Regional Board Staff Conclusion: | This pollutant is being considered for placement on the section 303(d) list under section 3.1 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.1 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status. One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Zero of the samples exceed the water quality objective. Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against placing this water segment-pollutant combination on the section 303(d) list in the Water Quality Limited Segments category. This conclusion is based on the staff findings that: 1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy. 2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy. 3. Zero of one samples exceeded the objective and this does not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy. 4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
Regional Board Staff Decision Recommendation: | After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because it cannot be determined if applicable water quality standards are not being exceeded.

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 31862, Chloride | Region 6
Virginia Creek
LOE ID: | 32247
Pollutant: | Chloride
LOE Subgroup: | Pollutant-Water
Matrix: | Water
Fraction: | None
Beneficial Use: | Cold Freshwater Habitat
Number of Samples: | 1
Number of Exceedances: | 0
Data and Information Type: | PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: | The average of the two samples collected did not exceed the water quality objective.
Data Reference: | Statewide Perennial Streams Assessment 2008
SWAMP Data: | SWAMP
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: | From the Lahontan Basin Plan Table 3-15 (Robinson Creek & all other tributaries above Bridgeport Valley), the water quality objective for chloride in this water body is an annual average of 2 mg/L.
Objective/Criterion Reference: | Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
Evaluation Guideline: |
Guideline Reference:
Spatial Representation: | Sample was collected at station 630PS0005 in Virginia Creek.
Temporal Representation: | Sample collected on 7/31/2008.
Environmental Conditions: |
QAPP Information: | The SWAMP QAPP (2008) was followed.
QAPP Information Reference(s): | Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program Quality Assurance Program Plan

DECISION ID | 22430 | Region 6
Virginia Creek

Pollutant: | Nitrate/Nitrite (Nitrite + Nitrate as N)
Final Listing Decision: | Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: | Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)(2010)
Revision Status | Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: | Pollutant
Regional Board Staff Conclusion: | This pollutant is being considered for placement on the section 303(d) list under section 3.1 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.1 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status. Two lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Zero of the samples exceed the water quality objective. For LOE ID #: 21341, it is based on the fraction "dissolved"; whereas for LOE ID: 44322, it is based on the fraction "none". There are evaluated against the same criteria and so should be evaluated together. Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against placing this water segment-pollutant combination on the section 303(d) list in the Water Quality Limited Segments category. This conclusion is based on the staff findings that: 1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy. 2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy. 3. Zero of five samples exceeded the criteria and this does not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy. 4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
Regional Board Staff Decision Recommendation: | After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because it cannot be determined if applicable water quality standards are not being exceeded.

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 22430, Nitrate/Nitrite (Nitrite + Nitrate as N) | Region 6
Virginia Creek
LOE ID: | 44322
Pollutant: | Nitrate/Nitrite (Nitrite + Nitrate as N)
LOE Subgroup: | Pollutant-Water
Matrix: | Water
Fraction: | None
Beneficial Use: | Municipal & Domestic Supply
Number of Samples: | 1
Number of Exceedances: | 0
Data and Information Type: | PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: | Water Board staff assessed SWAMP data for Virginia Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceed the criterion for Nitrate/Nitrite as N.
Data Reference: | Statewide Perennial Streams Assessment 2008
SWAMP Data: | SWAMP
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: | The California Maximum Contaminant Level for nitrate + nitrite (as N) that is incorporated by reference in the Water Quality Control Plan, Lahontan Region is 10.0 mg/L (Water Quality Control Plan, Lahontan Region).
Objective/Criterion Reference: | Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
Evaluation Guideline: |
Guideline Reference:
Spatial Representation: | Data for this line of evidence for Virginia Creek was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Virginia Creek]
Temporal Representation: | Data was collected on a single day 7/31/2008.
Environmental Conditions: | Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: | The SWAMP QAPP (2008) was followed.
QAPP Information Reference(s): | Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program Quality Assurance Program Plan
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 22430, Nitrate/Nitrite (Nitrite + Nitrate as N) | Region 6
Virginia Creek
LOE ID: | 21341
Pollutant: | Nitrate/Nitrite (Nitrite + Nitrate as N)
LOE Subgroup: | Pollutant-Water
Matrix: | Water
Fraction: | Dissolved
Beneficial Use: | Municipal & Domestic Supply
Number of Samples: | 4
Number of Exceedances: | 0
Data and Information Type: | Fixed station physical/chemical (conventional plus toxic pollutants)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: | The U.S. Geological Survey sampled Virginia Creek in 2002 and 2003 under the Region 6 SWAMP program. Concentrations of nitrite plus nitrate in 3 of 4 samples were estimated values. The concentration in the remaining sample was 0.073 mg/L. The MCL was not exceeded.
Data Reference: | 2007. SWAMP Data for the West Walker River and East Walker River Hydrologic Units
SWAMP Data: | SWAMP
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: | California Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) apply to ambient waters under the Lahontan Basin Plan's "Chemical Constituents" objective. The MCL for nitrite plus nitrate is 10 mg/L.
Objective/Criterion Reference: | Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
Evaluation Guideline: |
Guideline Reference: | 2007. SWAMP Data for the West Walker River and East Walker River Hydrologic Units
Spatial Representation: | One station, "Virginia Creek at Conway Summit," was sampled.
Temporal Representation: | Four quarterly samples were taken in 2002 and 2003.
Environmental Conditions: | Virginia Creek is a tributary of the East Walker River with headwaters near the Sierra Nevada crest. The Conway Summit station may be affected by runoff from a road that parallels the creek upstream. In addition to the Cold Freshwater Habitat beneficial use, Virginia Creek is designated for the Spawning, Reproduction and Development use.
QAPP Information: | The data meet the quality assurance requirements of the SWAMP QAPP.
QAPP Information Reference(s):

DECISION ID | 31863 | Region 6
Virginia Creek

Pollutant: | Nitrite
Final Listing Decision: | Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: | New Decision
Revision Status | Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: | Pollutant
Regional Board Staff Conclusion: | This pollutant is being considered for placement on the section 303(d) list under section 3.1 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.1 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status. One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Zero of the samples exceed the water quality objective. Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against placing this water segment-pollutant combination on the section 303(d) list in the Water Quality Limited Segments category. This conclusion is based on the staff findings that: 1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy. 2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy. 3. Zero of one samples exceeded the objective and this does not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy. 4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
Regional Board Staff Decision Recommendation: | After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because it cannot be determined if applicable water quality standards are not being exceeded.

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 31863, Nitrite | Region 6
Virginia Creek
LOE ID: | 44344
Pollutant: | Nitrite
LOE Subgroup: | Pollutant-Water
Matrix: | Water
Fraction: | None
Beneficial Use: | Municipal & Domestic Supply
Number of Samples: | 1
Number of Exceedances: | 0
Data and Information Type: | PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: | Water Board staff assessed SWAMP data for Virginia Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceed the criterion for Nitrite as N.
Data Reference: | Statewide Perennial Streams Assessment 2008
SWAMP Data: | SWAMP
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: | The Water Quality Control Plan, Lahontan Basin, Objective for Municipal and Domestic Supply uses of inland surface waters states the following: waters shall not contain concentrations of inorganic chemicals in excess of the limits specified in California Code of Regulations, Title 22, Table 64431-A of section 64431 (Inorganic Chemicals). The maximum contaminant level listed in Table 64431-A for Nitrite as N is 1.0 mg/L.
Objective/Criterion Reference: | Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
Evaluation Guideline: |
Guideline Reference:
Spatial Representation: | Data for this line of evidence for Virginia Creek was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Virginia Creek]
Temporal Representation: | Data was collected on a single day 7/31/2008.
Environmental Conditions: | Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: | The SWAMP QAPP (2008) was followed.
QAPP Information Reference(s): | Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program Quality Assurance Program Plan

DECISION ID | 31864 | Region 6
Virginia Creek

Pollutant: | Nitrogen, ammonia (Total Ammonia)
Final Listing Decision: | Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: | New Decision
Revision Status | Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: | Pollutant
Regional Board Staff Conclusion: | This pollutant is being considered for placement on the section 303(d) list under section 3.1 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.1 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status. One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Zero of the samples exceed the water quality objective. Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against placing this water segment-pollutant combination on the section 303(d) list in the Water Quality Limited Segments category. This conclusion is based on the staff findings that: 1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy. 2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy. 3. Zero of one samples exceeded the objective and this does not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy. 4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
Regional Board Staff Decision Recommendation: | After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because it cannot be determined if applicable water quality standards are not being exceeded.

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 31864, Nitrogen, ammonia (Total Ammonia) | Region 6
Virginia Creek
LOE ID: | 32485
Pollutant: | Nitrogen, ammonia (Total Ammonia)
LOE Subgroup: | Pollutant-Water
Matrix: | Water
Fraction: | Total
Beneficial Use: | Cold Freshwater Habitat
Number of Samples: | 1
Number of Exceedances: | 0
Data and Information Type: | PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: | The single sample did not exceeded the water quality objective for unionized ammonia. Data were reported as as total ammonia as nitrogen and were converted to unionized ammonia before being compared with the objective.
Data Reference: | Statewide Perennial Streams Assessment 2008
SWAMP Data: | SWAMP
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: | The Lahontan Basin Plan objective for unionized ammonia is a function of pH, temperature, and the presence of salmonids. The 4-day chronic criteria for unionized ammonia with salmonids present is 0.028 mg/L.
Objective/Criterion Reference: | Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
Evaluation Guideline: |
Guideline Reference:
Spatial Representation: | The sample was collected at site 630PS0005.
Temporal Representation: | The sample was collected on 7/31/2008.
Environmental Conditions: |
QAPP Information: | The SWAMP QAPP (2008) was followed.
QAPP Information Reference(s): | Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program Quality Assurance Program Plan

DECISION ID | 31865 | Region 6
Virginia Creek

Pollutant: | Oxygen, Dissolved
Final Listing Decision: | Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: | New Decision
Revision Status | Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: | Pollutant
Regional Board Staff Conclusion: | This pollutant is being considered for placement on the section 303(d) list under section 3.2 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.2 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status. One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Zero of the samples exceed the water quality objective. Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against placing this water segment-pollutant combination on the section 303(d) list in the Water Quality Limited Segments category. This conclusion is based on the staff findings that: 1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy. 2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy. 3. Zero of one samples exceeded the objective and this does not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.2 of the Listing Policy. 4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
Regional Board Staff Decision Recommendation: | After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because it cannot be determined if applicable water quality standards are not being exceeded.

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 31865, Oxygen, Dissolved | Region 6
Virginia Creek
LOE ID: | 32329
Pollutant: | Oxygen, Dissolved
LOE Subgroup: | Pollutant-Water
Matrix: | Water
Fraction: | None
Beneficial Use: | Cold Freshwater Habitat
Number of Samples: | 1
Number of Exceedances: | 0
Data and Information Type: | PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: | The single sample did not exceed the water quality objective.
Data Reference: | Statewide Perennial Streams Assessment 2008
SWAMP Data: | SWAMP
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: | The objective from Lahontan Basin Plan Table 3-6 for water bodies with the COLD/SPWN beneficial uses shall not be less than a one-day minimum dissolved oxygen concentration of 8 mg/L.
Objective/Criterion Reference: | Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
Evaluation Guideline: |
Guideline Reference:
Spatial Representation: | Sample was collected at station 630PS0005 in Virginia Creek.
Temporal Representation: | Sample collected on 7/31/2008.
Environmental Conditions: |
QAPP Information: | The SWAMP QAPP (2008) was followed.
QAPP Information Reference(s): | Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program Quality Assurance Program Plan

DECISION ID | 21109 | Region 6
Virginia Creek

Pollutant: | Phosphorus
Final Listing Decision: | Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: | Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)(2010)
Revision Status | Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: | Pollutant
Regional Board Staff Conclusion: | This pollutant is being considered for placement on the section 303(d) list under section 3.1 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.1 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status. Two lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. One of the samples exceed the water quality objective. For LOE ID #4981, the SWAMP data was compromised by not meeting holding times and so shoudl not be evaluated for listing purposes. For detemrining impairment, LOE ID# 32336 is the only LOE evaluated to determine impairment. Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against placing this water segment-pollutant combination on the section 303(d) list in the Water Quality Limited Segments category. This conclusion is based on the staff findings that: 1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy. 2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy. 3. One of one samples exceeded the objective and this does not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy. 4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
Regional Board Staff Decision Recommendation: | After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because it cannot be determined if applicable water quality standards are not being exceeded.

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 21109, Phosphorus | Region 6
Virginia Creek
LOE ID: | 32336
Pollutant: | Phosphorus
LOE Subgroup: | Pollutant-Water
Matrix: | Water
Fraction: | Total
Beneficial Use: | Cold Freshwater Habitat
Number of Samples: | 1
Number of Exceedances: | 1
Data and Information Type: | PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: | The annual average exceeded the water quality objective for total phosphorus. Two samples were collected on the same day and were averaged before comparing with the objective. The results were 0.017 mg/L and .032 mg/L, with an average of 0.024 mg/L
Data Reference: | Statewide Perennial Streams Assessment 2008
SWAMP Data: | SWAMP
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: | Table 3-15 of the Basin Plan states that the water quality objective for total phosphorus for Robinson Creek & all other tributaries above Bridgeport Valley is an annual average objective of 0.02 mg/L.
Objective/Criterion Reference: | Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
Evaluation Guideline: |
Guideline Reference:
Spatial Representation: | The samples were collected at site 630PS0005.
Temporal Representation: | The samples were collected on 7/31/2008.
Environmental Conditions: |
QAPP Information: | The SWAMP QAPP (2008) was followed.
QAPP Information Reference(s): | Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program Quality Assurance Program Plan
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 21109, Phosphorus | Region 6
Virginia Creek
LOE ID: | 4981
Pollutant: | Phosphorus
LOE Subgroup: | Pollutant-Water
Matrix: | Water
Fraction: | Total
Beneficial Use: | Cold Freshwater Habitat
Number of Samples: | 2
Number of Exceedances: | 0
Data and Information Type: | Fixed station physical/chemical (conventional plus toxic pollutants)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: | The U.S. Geological Survey sampled phosphorus in 2002 and 2003 under the Region 6 SWAMP program. Concentrations of total phosphorus in four samples ranged from 0.008 to 0.013 mg/L. The annual average objective was not exceeded.
Data Reference: | 2007. SWAMP Data for the West Walker River and East Walker River Hydrologic Units
SWAMP Data: | SWAMP
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: | The site-specific objective for Virginia Creek as a tributary of the East Walker includes an annual average Total P = 0.02 mg/L and a 90th percentile value of 0.03 mg/L (Lahontan Basin Plan Table 3-15)
Objective/Criterion Reference: | Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
Evaluation Guideline: |
Guideline Reference:
Spatial Representation: | One station, "Virginia Creek at Conway Summit," was sampled.
Temporal Representation: | Four quarterly samples were collected.
Environmental Conditions: | Virginia Creek is a tributary of the East Walker River with headwaters near the Sierra Nevada crest. The Conway Summit station may be affected by runoff from a road that parallels the creek upstream. In addition to the Cold Freshwater Habitat beneficial use, Virginia Creek is designated for the Spawning, Reproduction and Development use.
QAPP Information: | Sampling and analysis were done according to the SWAMP QAPP. However, in July 2009 an error was discovered in the QAPP related to holding times for total phosphorus samples that affects the validity of data for the Lahontan Region The holding time for samples that are not acid-preserved.should be 48 hours rather than 28 days as indicated in the QAPP. "Low level" phosphorus analyses, without acid preservation, are used in the Lahontan Region's SWAMP program. .
QAPP Information Reference(s):

DECISION ID | 31867 | Region 6
Virginia Creek

Pollutant: | Specific Conductivity
Final Listing Decision: | Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: | New Decision
Revision Status | Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: | Pollutant
Regional Board Staff Conclusion: | This pollutant is being considered for placement on the section 303(d) list under section 3.2 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.2 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status. One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Zero of the samples exceed the water quality objective. Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against placing this water segment-pollutant combination on the section 303(d) list in the Water Quality Limited Segments category. This conclusion is based on the staff findings that: 1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy. 2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy. 3. Zero of one samples exceeded the objective and this does not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.2 of the Listing Policy. 4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
Regional Board Staff Decision Recommendation: | After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because it cannot be determined if applicable water quality standards are not being exceeded.

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 31867, Specific Conductivity | Region 6
Virginia Creek
LOE ID: | 44278
Pollutant: | Specific Conductivity
LOE Subgroup: | Pollutant-Water
Matrix: | Water
Fraction: | None
Beneficial Use: | Municipal & Domestic Supply
Number of Samples: | 1
Number of Exceedances: | 0
Data and Information Type: | PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: | Water Board staff assessed SWAMP data for Virginia Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceed the criterion for Conductivity(Us).
Data Reference: | Statewide Perennial Streams Assessment 2008
SWAMP Data: | SWAMP
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: | The California Secondary MCL that is incorporated by reference in the Water Quality Control Plan, Lahontan Region for specific conductance is 900 uS/cm (Water Quality Control Plan, Lahontan Region).
Objective/Criterion Reference: | Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
Evaluation Guideline: |
Guideline Reference:
Spatial Representation: | Data for this line of evidence for Virginia Creek was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Virginia Creek]
Temporal Representation: | Data was collected on a single day 7/31/2008.
Environmental Conditions: | Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: | The SWAMP QAPP (2008) was followed.
QAPP Information Reference(s): | Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program Quality Assurance Program Plan

DECISION ID | 31866 | Region 6
Virginia Creek

Pollutant: | Sulfates
Final Listing Decision: | Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: | New Decision
Revision Status | Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: | Pollutant
Regional Board Staff Conclusion: | This pollutant is being considered for placement on the section 303(d) list under section 3.1 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.1 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status. One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Zero] of the samples exceed the water quality objective. Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against placing this water segment-pollutant combination on the section 303(d) list in the Water Quality Limited Segments category. This conclusion is based on the staff findings that: 1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy. 2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy. 3. Zero of two samples exceeded the objective and this does not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy. 4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
Regional Board Staff Decision Recommendation: | After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because applicable water quality standards are not being exceeded.

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 31866, Sulfates | Region 6
Virginia Creek
LOE ID: | 33153
Pollutant: | Sulfates
LOE Subgroup: | Pollutant-Water
Matrix: | Water
Fraction: | None
Beneficial Use: | Municipal & Domestic Supply
Number of Samples: | 2
Number of Exceedances: | 0
Data and Information Type: | PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: | The the two samples collected did not exceed the water quality objective.
Data Reference: | Statewide Perennial Streams Assessment 2008
SWAMP Data: | SWAMP
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: | California Secondary Maximum Contaminant Levels (SMCLs) apply to ambient waters under the Lahontan Basin Plan's "Chemical Constituents" objective. The SMCL for Sulfates (SO4) is 250 mg/L.
Objective/Criterion Reference: | Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
Evaluation Guideline: |
Guideline Reference:
Spatial Representation: | Sample was collected at station 630PS0005 in Virginia Creek.
Temporal Representation: | Sample collected on 7/31/2008.
Environmental Conditions: |
QAPP Information: | The SWAMP QAPP (2008) was followed.
QAPP Information Reference(s): | Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program Quality Assurance Program Plan

DECISION ID | 21248 | Region 6
Virginia Creek

Pollutant: | Temperature, water
Final Listing Decision: | Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: | Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)(2010)
Revision Status | Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: | Pollutant
Regional Board Staff Conclusion: | This pollutant is being considered for placement on the section 303(d) list under section 3.2 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.2 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status. Two lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Zero of the samples exceed the water quality objective. For future reference: For LOE ID # 4986, a narrative objective was used and for LOE ID # 44300, a numeric guideline was used. For LOE # 4986, samples were taken quarterly, within the winter months and so some of these samples may not be applicable to evaluate against the guideline in LOE # 44300 Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against placing this water segment-pollutant combination on the section 303(d) list in the Water Quality Limited Segments category. This conclusion is based on the staff findings that: 1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy. 2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy. 3. Zero of five samples exceeded the objective/guideline and this does not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.2 of the Listing Policy. 4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
Regional Board Staff Decision Recommendation: | After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because it cannot be determined if applicable water quality standards are not being exceeded.

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 21248, Temperature, water | Region 6
Virginia Creek
LOE ID: | 4986
Pollutant: | Temperature, water
LOE Subgroup: | Pollutant-Water
Matrix: | Water
Fraction: | None
Beneficial Use: | Cold Freshwater Habitat
Number of Samples: | 4
Number of Exceedances: | 0
Data and Information Type: | Fixed station physical/chemical (conventional plus toxic pollutants)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: | The U.S. Geological Survey measured water temperature in 2002 and 2003 under the Region 6 SWAMP program. Four temperature measurements ranged from 1 to 16 degrees Celsius.
Data Reference: | 2007. SWAMP Data for the West Walker River and East Walker River Hydrologic Units
SWAMP Data: | SWAMP
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: | The temperature objective in the Lahontan Basin Plan states: "The natural receiving water temperature of all waters shall not be altered unless it can be demonstrated to the satisfaction of the Regional Board that such an alteration in temperature does not adversely affect the water for beneficial uses. For waters designated WARM, water temperature shall not be altered by more than five degrees Fahrenheit ... above or below the natural temperature. For waters designated COLD, the temperature shall not be altered. Temperature objectives for COLD interstate waters and WARM interstate waters are as specified in the 'Water Quality Control Plan for Control of Temperature in The Coastal and Interstate Waters and Enclosed Bays and Estuaries of California' including any revisions."
Objective/Criterion Reference: | Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
Evaluation Guideline: |
Guideline Reference:
Spatial Representation: | One station, "Virginia Creek at Conway Summit," was sampled.
Temporal Representation: | Four quarterly temperature measurements were taken in 2002 and 2003.
Environmental Conditions: | Virginia Creek is a tributary of the East Walker River with headwaters near the Sierra Nevada crest. The Conway Summit station may be affected by runoff from a road that parallels the creek upstream. In addition to the Cold Freshwater Habitat beneficial use, Virginia Creek is designated for the Spawning, Reproduction and Development use.
QAPP Information: | The data meet the quality assurance requirements of the SWAMP QAPP.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 21248, Temperature, water | Region 6
Virginia Creek
LOE ID: | 44300
Pollutant: | Temperature, water
LOE Subgroup: | Pollutant-Water
Matrix: | Water
Fraction: | None
Beneficial Use: | Cold Freshwater Habitat
Number of Samples: | 1
Number of Exceedances: | 0
Data and Information Type: | PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: | Water Board staff assessed SWAMP data for Virginia Creek to determine beneficial use support and results are as follows: 0 of 1 samples exceed the criterion for Water Temperature.
Data Reference: | Statewide Perennial Streams Assessment 2008
SWAMP Data: | SWAMP
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: | The Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region's water quality objective for all surface waters states the following: The natural receiving water temperature of all waters shall not be altered unless it can be demonstrated to the satisfaction of the Regional Board that such an alteration in temperature does not adversely affect the water for beneficial uses. For waters designated COLD, the temperature shall not be altered.
Objective/Criterion Reference: | Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
Evaluation Guideline: | Inland Fishes of California (Moyle 1976) states that for rainbow trout the optimum range for growth and completion of most life stages is 13-21 degrees C (page 129).
Guideline Reference: | Fish introductions in CA: History and impact on native fishes. Davis, CA: University of CA, Davis
Spatial Representation: | Data for this line of evidence for Virginia Creek was collected at 1 monitoring site [ Virginia Creek]
Temporal Representation: | Data was collected on a single day 7/31/2008.
Environmental Conditions: | Staff is not aware of any special conditions that might affect interpretation of the data.
QAPP Information: | The SWAMP QAPP (2008) was followed.
QAPP Information Reference(s): | Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program Quality Assurance Program Plan

DECISION ID | 22098 | Region 6
Virginia Creek

Pollutant: | Total Nitrogen as N
Final Listing Decision: | Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: | Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)(2010)
Revision Status | Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: | Pollutant
Regional Board Staff Conclusion: | This pollutant is being considered for placement on the section 303(d) list under section 3.1 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.1 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status. Two lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. One of the samples exceed the water quality objective. The LOE ID # 32335 may not accurately represent water quality as the samples were collected ona single day to give an annual average. In the future, a more robust data set is needed to accuratenly determine water quality. Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against placing this water segment-pollutant combination on the section 303(d) list in the Water Quality Limited Segments category. This conclusion is based on the staff findings that: 1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy. 2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy. 3. One of three samples exceeded the objective and this does not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy. 4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
Regional Board Staff Decision Recommendation: | After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because it cannot be determined if applicable water quality standards are not being exceeded.

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 22098, Total Nitrogen as N | Region 6
Virginia Creek
LOE ID: | 21343
Pollutant: | Total Nitrogen as N
LOE Subgroup: | Pollutant-Water
Matrix: | Water
Fraction: | Total
Beneficial Use: | Cold Freshwater Habitat
Number of Samples: | 2
Number of Exceedances: | 0
Data and Information Type: | Fixed station physical/chemical (conventional plus toxic pollutants)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: | The U.S. Geological Survey sampled Virginia Creek in 2002 and 2003 under the Region 6 SWAMP program. Four samples each were collected for total Kjeldahl nitrogen and nitrite plus nitrate. Because these samples included estimated and below detection level values, all total nitrogen concentrations and the two annual averages were estimates.
Data Reference: | 2007. SWAMP Data for the West Walker River and East Walker River Hydrologic Units
SWAMP Data: | SWAMP
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: | The site-specific objective for Virginia Creek as a tributary of the East Walker includes an annual average Total N concentration of 0.05 mg/L and a 90th percentile value of 0.20 mg/L (Lahontan Basin Plan Table 3-15)
Objective/Criterion Reference: | Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
Evaluation Guideline: |
Guideline Reference:
Spatial Representation: | One station, "Virginia Creek at Conway Summit," was sampled.
Temporal Representation: | Four quarterly samples each were collected for total Kjeldahl nitrogen and nitrite plus nitrate.
Environmental Conditions: | Virginia Creek is a tributary of the East Walker River with headwaters near the Sierra Nevada crest. The Conway Summit station may be affected by runoff from a road that parallels the creek upstream. In addition to the Cold Freshwater Habitat beneficial use, Virginia Creek is designated for the Spawning, Reproduction and Development use.
QAPP Information: | The data meet the quality assurance requirements of the SWAMP QAPP.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 22098, Total Nitrogen as N | Region 6
Virginia Creek
LOE ID: | 32335
Pollutant: | Total Nitrogen as N
LOE Subgroup: | Pollutant-Water
Matrix: | Water
Fraction: | Total
Beneficial Use: | Cold Freshwater Habitat
Number of Samples: | 1
Number of Exceedances: | 1
Data and Information Type: | PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: | The calculated sample exceeded the water quality objective for total nitrogen. Total nitrogen was calculated by summing nitrate + nitrite as N data with TKN data when they were collected on the same day. Two pairs were summed and averaged before comparing with the annual objective.
Data Reference: | Statewide Perennial Streams Assessment 2008
SWAMP Data: | SWAMP
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: | Table 3-17 of the Basin Plan states that the water quality objective for total nitrogen for Robinson Creek & all other tributaries above Bridgeport Valley is an annual average objective of 0.05 mg/L.
Objective/Criterion Reference: | Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
Evaluation Guideline: |
Guideline Reference:
Spatial Representation: | The samples were collected at site 630PS0005.
Temporal Representation: | The samples were collected on 7/31/2008.
Environmental Conditions: |
QAPP Information: | The SWAMP QAPP (2008) was followed.
QAPP Information Reference(s): | Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program Quality Assurance Program Plan

DECISION ID | 22513 | Region 6
Virginia Creek

Pollutant: | pH
Final Listing Decision: | Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: | Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)(2010)
Revision Status | Revised
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: | Pollutant
Regional Board Staff Conclusion: | This pollutant is being considered for placement on the section 303(d) list under section 3.2 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.2 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status. Two lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Zero of the samples exceed the water quality objective. For LOE #: 33134, zero samples were evaluated as the objective relates to ambient pH, which is currently unknwon at this time. Without baseline historical data, impairment can not be determined. Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against placing this water segment-pollutant combination on the section 303(d) list in the Water Quality Limited Segments category. This conclusion is based on the staff findings that: 1. The data used satisfies the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy. 2. The data used satisfies the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy. 3. Zero of four samples exceeded the objective and this does not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.2 of the Listing Policy. 4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
Regional Board Staff Decision Recommendation: | After review of the available data and information, RWQCB staff concludes that the water body-pollutant combination should not be placed on the section 303(d) list because it cannot be determined if applicable water quality standards are not being exceeded.

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 22513, pH | Region 6
Virginia Creek
LOE ID: | 4980
Pollutant: | pH
LOE Subgroup: | Pollutant-Water
Matrix: | Water
Fraction: | None
Beneficial Use: | Cold Freshwater Habitat
Number of Samples: | 4
Number of Exceedances: | 0
Data and Information Type: | Fixed station physical/chemical (conventional plus toxic pollutants)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: | The U.S. Geological Survey measured pH in 2002 and 2003 under the Region 6 SWAMP program. 4 field pH measurements ranged from 6.5 to 7.8 units.
Data Reference: | 2007. SWAMP Data for the West Walker River and East Walker River Hydrologic Units
SWAMP Data: | SWAMP
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: | The regionwide objective in the Lahontan Basin Plan states: "In fresh waters with designated beneficial uses of COLD or WARM, changes in normal ambient pH levels shall not exceed 0.5 pH units. For all other waters of the region, the pH shall not be depressed below 6.5 nor raised above 8.5 units. The Regional Board recognizes that some waters of the Region may have natural pH levels outside of the 6.5 to 8.5 range. Compliance with the pH objective for these waters will be determined on a case-by-case basis."
Objective/Criterion Reference: | Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
Evaluation Guideline: |
Guideline Reference:
Spatial Representation: | One station, "Virginia Creek at Conway Summit," was sampled.
Temporal Representation: | Four quarterly samples were collected in 2002 and 2003.
Environmental Conditions: | Virginia Creek is a tributary of the East Walker River with headwaters near the Sierra Nevada crest. The Conway Summit station may be affected by runoff from a road that parallels the creek upstream. In addition to the Cold Freshwater Habitat beneficial use, Virginia Creek is designated for the Spawning, Reproduction and Development use.
QAPP Information: | The data meet the quality assurance requirements of the SWAMP QAPP.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 22513, pH | Region 6
Virginia Creek
LOE ID: | 33134
Pollutant: | pH
LOE Subgroup: | Pollutant-Water
Matrix: | Water
Fraction: | None
Beneficial Use: | Cold Freshwater Habitat
Number of Samples: | 0
Number of Exceedances: | 0
Data and Information Type: | PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL MONITORING
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: | There was 1 sample with a pH of 8.89. The normal ambient pH level for this water body is unknown and so it is unknown whether any exceedences occured.
Data Reference: | Statewide Perennial Streams Assessment 2008
SWAMP Data: | SWAMP
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: | The applicable objective states: "In fresh waters with designated beneficial uses of COLD or WARM, changes in normal ambient pH levels shall not exceed 0.5 pH units." (Lahontan Basin Plan).
Objective/Criterion Reference: | Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
Evaluation Guideline: |
Guideline Reference:
Spatial Representation: | Sample was collected at station 630PS0005 in Virginia Creek.
Temporal Representation: | Sample collected on 7/31/2008.
Environmental Conditions: |
QAPP Information: | The SWAMP QAPP (2008) was followed.
QAPP Information Reference(s): | Surface Water Ambient Monitoring Program Quality Assurance Program Plan

DECISION ID | 22429 | Region 6
Virginia Creek

Pollutant: | Acid Neutralizing Capacity
Final Listing Decision: | Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: | Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)(2010)
Revision Status | Original
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: | Pollutant
Regional Board Staff Conclusion: | Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant was considered for placement on the section 303(d) list in a previous assessment cycle. No new information was reviewed for this current assessment cycle. Therefore, the previous conclusion remains unchanged, and is as follow This pollutant is being considered for placement on the section 303(d) list under section 3.2 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.2 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status. One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. Acid Neutralizing Capacity (ANC) is equivalent to alkalinity, and the USEPA "Gold Book" criterion for alkalinity states that it should be greater than 20 mg/L CaCO3 unless natural alkalinity is lower. Only one ANC sample is available for Virginia Creek, at 7.9 mg/L CaCO3. There is insufficient information to determine the natural range of ANC. Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against placing this water segment-pollutant combination on the section 303(d) list in the Water Quality Limited Segments category. This conclusion is based on the staff findings that: 1. The data used satisfy the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy. 2. The data used do not satisfy the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy. The single sample does not capture the seasonal and annual variability expected in streamflows and constituent concentrations in streams of the Lahontan Region. 3. It is not possible to determine whether the single sample exceeds the criterion. The minimum sample number requirements of Table 3.2 of the Listing Policy are not met. 4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
Regional Board Staff Decision Recommendation: | No new data were assessed for this assessment cycle. The conclusion reached in the previous cycle remains in same. The Regional Board will update this decision when new data and information become available in a future assessment cycle.

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 22429, Acid Neutralizing Capacity | Region 6
Virginia Creek
LOE ID: | 21339
Pollutant: | Acid Neutralizing Capacity
LOE Subgroup: | Pollutant-Water
Matrix: | Water
Fraction: | None
Beneficial Use: | Cold Freshwater Habitat
Number of Samples: | 1
Number of Exceedances: | 0
Data and Information Type: | Fixed station physical/chemical (conventional plus toxic pollutants)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: | The U.S. Geological Survey sampled Virginia Creek under the Region 6 SWAMP program. The ANC of one sample collected on March 10, 2003 was 7.9 mg/L CaCO3.
Data Reference: | 2007. SWAMP Data for the West Walker River and East Walker River Hydrologic Units
SWAMP Data: | SWAMP
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: | There are no California or federal standards or criteria for acid neutralizing capacity (ANC) per se. However, ANC is equivalent to alkalinity, and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency "Gold Book" recommends alkalinity greater than 20 mg/L CaCO3 unless natural alkalinity is lower.
Objective/Criterion Reference: | Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
Evaluation Guideline: |
Guideline Reference:
Spatial Representation: | One station, "Virginia Creek at Conway Summit," was sampled.
Temporal Representation: | One sample was collected on March 10, 2003
Environmental Conditions: | Virginia Creek is a tributary of the East Walker River with headwaters near the Sierra Nevada crest. The Conway Summit station may be affected by runoff from a road that parallels the creek upstream. In addition to the Cold Freshwater Habitat beneficial use, Virginia Creek is designated for the Spawning, Reproduction and Development use.
QAPP Information: | The data meet the quality assurance requirements of the SWAMP QAPP.
QAPP Information Reference(s):

DECISION ID | 21095 | Region 6
Virginia Creek

Pollutant: | Ammonia
Final Listing Decision: | Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: | Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)(2010)
Revision Status | Original
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: | Pollutant
Regional Board Staff Conclusion: | Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant was considered for placement on the section 303(d) list in a previous assessment cycle. No new information was reviewed for this current assessment cycle. Therefore, the previous conclusion remains unchanged, and is as follows: This pollutant is being considered for placement on the section 303(d) list under section 3.1 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.1 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status. One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. None of the samples exceed the applicable water quality objectives. Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against placing this water segment-pollutant combination on the section 303(d) list in the Water Quality Limited Segments category. This conclusion is based on the staff findings that: 1. The data used satisfy the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy. 2. The data used do not satisfy the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy. Quarterly samples do not capture the diel, seasonal and annual variability expected in streamflows and ammonia concentrations in streams of the Lahontan Region. 3. None of four samples exceeded the water quality objectives and this does not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy. 4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
Regional Board Staff Decision Recommendation: | No new data were assessed for this assessment cycle. The conclusion reached in the previous cycle remains in same. The Regional Board will update this decision when new data and information become available in a future assessment cycle.

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 21095, Ammonia | Region 6
Virginia Creek
LOE ID: | 6081
Pollutant: | Ammonia
LOE Subgroup: | Pollutant-Water
Matrix: | Water
Fraction: | Not Recorded
Beneficial Use: | Cold Freshwater Habitat
Number of Samples: | 4
Number of Exceedances: | 0
Data and Information Type: | Fixed station physical/chemical (conventional plus toxic pollutants)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: | The U.S. Geological Survey sampled Virginia Creek four times between June 2002 and June 2003 under the Region 6 SWAMP program. Four ammonia samples were all below the detection level. Per listing policy Section 6.1.5.5, the objectives are presumed to be attained.
Data Reference: | 2007. SWAMP Data for the West Walker River and East Walker River Hydrologic Units
SWAMP Data: | SWAMP
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: | At the pH and temperature levels reported for this station, the applicable ammonia objectives from Basin Plan Table 3-1 are as follows. The 1-hour average objective for unionized ammonia ranges from 0.0182 to 0.159 mg/L NH3. The objective for total ammonia ranges from 10.5 to 31 mg/L NH3.
Objective/Criterion Reference: | Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
Evaluation Guideline: |
Guideline Reference:
Spatial Representation: | One station, "Virginia Creek at Conway Summit," was sampled.
Temporal Representation: | Four quarterly samples were collected in 2002 and 2003.
Environmental Conditions: | Virginia Creek is a tributary of the East Walker River with headwaters near the Sierra Nevada crest. The Conway Summit station may be affected by runoff from a road that parallels the creek upstream. In addition to the Cold Freshwater Habitat beneficial use, Virginia Creek is designated for the Spawning, Reproduction and Development use.
QAPP Information: | The data meet the quality assurance requirements of the SWAMP QAPP.
QAPP Information Reference(s):

DECISION ID | 20841 | Region 6
Virginia Creek

Pollutant: | Dissolved Kjeldahl Nitrogen
Final Listing Decision: | Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: | Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)(2010)
Revision Status | Original
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: | Pollutant
Regional Board Staff Conclusion: | Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant was considered for placement on the section 303(d) list in a previous assessment cycle. No new information was reviewed for this current assessment cycle. Therefore, the previous conclusion remains unchanged, and is as follows: This pollutant is being considered for placement on the section 303(d) list under section 3.1 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.1 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status. One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. No biological data are available for assessment of compliance with the water quality objective for biostimulatory substances. Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against placing this water segment-pollutant combination on the section 303(d) list in the Water Quality Limited Segments category. This conclusion is based on the staff findings that: 1. The data used satisfy the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy. 2. The data used do not satisfy the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy. Quarterly samples do not capture the seasonal and annual variability expected in streamflows and constituent concentrations in streams of the Lahontan Region. 3. No biological data are available and the data cannot be assessed using Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy. 4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
Regional Board Staff Decision Recommendation: | No new data were assessed for this assessment cycle. The conclusion reached in the previous cycle remains in same. The Regional Board will update this decision when new data and information become available in a future assessment cycle.

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 20841, Dissolved Kjeldahl Nitrogen | Region 6
Virginia Creek
LOE ID: | 21340
Pollutant: | Dissolved Kjeldahl Nitrogen
LOE Subgroup: | Pollutant-Water
Matrix: | Water
Fraction: | Dissolved
Beneficial Use: | Cold Freshwater Habitat
Number of Samples: | 4
Number of Exceedances: | 0
Data and Information Type: | Fixed station physical/chemical (conventional plus toxic pollutants)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: | The U.S. Geological Survey sampled Virginia Creek in 2002 and 2003 under the Region 6 SWAMP program. Two of four samples for dissolved Kjeldahl nitrogen were estimates and the other two were below the detection level.
Data Reference: | 2007. SWAMP Data for the West Walker River and East Walker River Hydrologic Units
SWAMP Data: | SWAMP
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: | The Lahontan Basin Plan's objective for biostimulatory substances states: "Waters shall not contain biostimulatory substances in concentrations that promote aquatic growths to the extent that such growths cause nuisance or adversely affect the water for beneficial uses."
Objective/Criterion Reference: | Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
Evaluation Guideline: |
Guideline Reference: | 2007. SWAMP Data for the West Walker River and East Walker River Hydrologic Units
Spatial Representation: | One station, "Virginia Creek at Conway Summit," was sampled.
Temporal Representation: | Four quarterly samples were taken in 2002 and 2003.
Environmental Conditions: | Virginia Creek is a tributary of the East Walker River with headwaters near the Sierra Nevada crest. The Conway Summit station may be affected by runoff from a road that parallels the creek upstream. In addition to the Cold Freshwater Habitat beneficial use, Virginia Creek is designated for the Spawning, Reproduction and Development use.
QAPP Information: | The data meet the quality assurance requirements of the SWAMP QAPP.
QAPP Information Reference(s):

DECISION ID | 20858 | Region 6
Virginia Creek

Pollutant: | Fecal Coliform
Final Listing Decision: | Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: | Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)(2010)
Revision Status | Original
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: | Pollutant
Regional Board Staff Conclusion: | Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant was considered for placement on the section 303(d) list in a previous assessment cycle. No new information was reviewed for this current assessment cycle. Therefore, the previous conclusion remains unchanged, and is as follows: This pollutant is being considered for placement on the section 303(d) list under section 3.3 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.3 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status. One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. The single sample doe not exceed the water quality objective. Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against placing this water segment-pollutant combination on the section 303(d) list in the Water Quality Limited Segments category. This conclusion is based on the staff findings that: 1. The data used satisfy the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy. 2. The single sample does not satisfy the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy. 3. The single sample did not exceed the water quality objective and this does not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.2 of the Listing Policy. The minimum sample number requirement of Table 3.2 is not met. 4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
Regional Board Staff Decision Recommendation: | No new data were assessed for this assessment cycle. The conclusion reached in the previous cycle remains in same. The Regional Board will update this decision when new data and information become available in a future assessment cycle.

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 20858, Fecal Coliform | Region 6
Virginia Creek
LOE ID: | 5703
Pollutant: | Fecal Coliform
LOE Subgroup: | Pollutant-Water
Matrix: | Water
Fraction: | None
Beneficial Use: | Water Contact Recreation
Number of Samples: | 1
Number of Exceedances: | 0
Data and Information Type: | Water column surveys (e.g. fecal coliform)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: | The U.S. Geological Survey sampled Virginia Creek under the Region 6 SWAMP program. Only one fecal coliform sample was collected in June 2002. Its value was less than one colony per 100 mL. Per listing policy Section 6.1.5.5, the standard is presumed to be attained.
Data Reference: | 2007. SWAMP Data for the West Walker River and East Walker River Hydrologic Units
SWAMP Data: | SWAMP
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: | The Lahontan Basin Plan's objective for coliform bacteria states: "Waters shall not contain concentrations of coliform organisms attributable to anthropogenic sources, including human and livestock wastes. The fecal coliform concentration during any 30-day period shall not exceed a log mean of 20/100 ml, nor shall more than 10 percent of all samples collected during any 30-day period exceed 40/100 ml. The log mean shall ideally be based on a minimum of not less than five samples collected as evenly spaced as practicable during any 30-day period. However, a log mean concentration exceeding 20/100 ml for any 30-day period shall indicate violation of this objective even if fewer than five samples were collected." .
Objective/Criterion Reference: | Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
| 2007. SWAMP Data for the West Walker River and East Walker River Hydrologic Units
Evaluation Guideline: |
Guideline Reference:
Spatial Representation: | One station, "Virginia Creek at Conway Summit," was sampled.
Temporal Representation: | One fecal coliform sample was collected in June 2002.
Environmental Conditions: | Virginia Creek is a tributary of the East Walker River with headwaters near the Sierra Nevada crest. The Conway Summit station may be affected by runoff from a road that parallels the creek upstream. In addition to the Cold Freshwater Habitat beneficial use, Virginia Creek is designated for the Spawning, Reproduction and Development use.
QAPP Information: | The data meet the quality assurance requirements of the SWAMP QAPP.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 20858, Fecal Coliform | Region 6
Virginia Creek
LOE ID: | 5702
Pollutant: | Fecal Coliform
LOE Subgroup: | Pollutant-Water
Matrix: | Water
Fraction: | None
Beneficial Use: | Municipal & Domestic Supply
Number of Samples: | 1
Number of Exceedances: | 0
Data and Information Type: | Water column surveys (e.g. fecal coliform)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: | The U.S. Geological Survey sampled Virginia Creek under the Region 6 SWAMP program. Only one fecal coliform sample was collected in June 2002. Its value was less than one colony per 100 mL. Per listing policy Section 6.1.5.5, the standard is presumed to be attained.
Data Reference: | 2007. SWAMP Data for the West Walker River and East Walker River Hydrologic Units
SWAMP Data: | SWAMP
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: | The Lahontan Basin Plan's objective for coliform bacteria states: "Waters shall not contain concentrations of coliform organisms attributable to anthropogenic sources, including human and livestock wastes. The fecal coliform concentration during any 30-day period shall not exceed a log mean of 20/100 ml, nor shall more than 10 percent of all samples collected during any 30-day period exceed 40/100 ml. The log mean shall ideally be based on a minimum of not less than five samples collected as evenly spaced as practicable during any 30-day period. However, a log mean concentration exceeding 20/100 ml for any 30-day period shall indicate violation of this objective even if fewer than five samples were collected." .
Objective/Criterion Reference: | Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
Evaluation Guideline: |
Guideline Reference:
Spatial Representation: | One station, "Virginia Creek at Conway Summit," was sampled.
Temporal Representation: | One fecal coliform sample was collected in June 2002.
Environmental Conditions: | Virginia Creek is a tributary of the East Walker River with headwaters near the Sierra Nevada crest. The Conway Summit station may be affected by runoff from a road that parallels the creek upstream. In addition to the Cold Freshwater Habitat beneficial use, Virginia Creek is designated for the Spawning, Reproduction and Development use.
QAPP Information: | The data meet the quality assurance requirements of the SWAMP QAPP.
QAPP Information Reference(s):

DECISION ID | 21108 | Region 6
Virginia Creek

Pollutant: | Phosphate
Final Listing Decision: | Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: | Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)(2010)
Revision Status | Original
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: | Pollutant
Regional Board Staff Conclusion: | Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant was considered for placement on the section 303(d) list in a previous assessment cycle. No new information was reviewed for this current assessment cycle. Therefore, the previous conclusion remains unchanged, and is as follows: This pollutant is being considered for placement on the section 303(d) list under section 3.1 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.1 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status. One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. No biological data are available to assess whether the chemical samples exceed the water quality objective for biostimulatory substances. Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against placing this water segment-pollutant combination on the section 303(d) list in the Water Quality Limited Segments category. This conclusion is based on the staff findings that: 1. The data used satisfy the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy. 2. The data used do not satisfy the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy. Quarterly samples do not capture the seasonal and annual variability expected in streamflows and constituent concentrations in streams of the Lahontan Region. 3. No biological data are available for assessment of compliance with the water quality objective.. 4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
Regional Board Staff Decision Recommendation: | No new data were assessed for this assessment cycle. The conclusion reached in the previous cycle remains in same. The Regional Board will update this decision when new data and information become available in a future assessment cycle.

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 21108, Phosphate | Region 6
Virginia Creek
LOE ID: | 6080
Pollutant: | Phosphate
LOE Subgroup: | Pollutant-Water
Matrix: | Water
Fraction: | Dissolved
Beneficial Use: | Cold Freshwater Habitat
Number of Samples: | 4
Number of Exceedances: | 0
Data and Information Type: | Fixed station physical/chemical (conventional plus toxic pollutants)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: | The U.S. Geological Survey sampled phosphate in 2002 and 2003 under the Region 6 SWAMP program. Concentrations of phosphate in four samples were all estimated or below detection level values.
Data Reference: | 2007. SWAMP Data for the West Walker River and East Walker River Hydrologic Units
SWAMP Data: | SWAMP
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: | The Lahontan Basin Plan does not include a site specific objective for phosphate applicable to Virginia Creek. Compliance with the objective for total phosphorus is assessed in a separate line of evidence. The Lahontan Basin Plan's objective for biostimulatory substances states: "Waters shall not contain biostimulatory substances in concentrations that promote aquatic growths to the extent that such growths cause nuisance or adversely affect the water for beneficial uses."
Objective/Criterion Reference: | Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
Evaluation Guideline: |
Guideline Reference:
Spatial Representation: | One station, "Virginia Creek at Conway Summit," was sampled.
Temporal Representation: | Four quarterly samples were collected.
Environmental Conditions: | Virginia Creek is a tributary of the East Walker River with headwaters near the Sierra Nevada crest. The Conway Summit station may be affected by runoff from a road that parallels the creek upstream. In addition to the Cold Freshwater Habitat beneficial use, Virginia Creek is designated for the Spawning, Reproduction and Development use.
QAPP Information: | The data meet the quality assurance requirements of the SWAMP QAPP.
QAPP Information Reference(s):

DECISION ID | 20860 | Region 6
Virginia Creek

Pollutant: | Sediment
Final Listing Decision: | Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: | Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)(2010)
Revision Status | Original
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: | Pollutant
Regional Board Staff Conclusion: | Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant was considered for placement on the section 303(d) list in a previous assessment cycle. No new information was reviewed for this current assessment cycle. Therefore, the previous conclusion remains unchanged, and is as follows: The Lahontan Basin Plan's narrative water quality objective is an antidegradation based objective that provides that there shall be no increases in suspended sediment concentrations or loads. This pollutant is being considered for placement on the section 303(d) list under section 3.10 of the Listing Policy, which deals with trends in water quality. One line of evidence, based on quarterly sampling, is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. It includes only four suspended sediment samples. Suspended sediment concentrations and loads are dependent on flows and can change rapidly over a short time during storm or snowmelt runoff events. Quarterly samples are insufficient to capture these short term events and therefore are insufficient to define natural background suspended sediment concentrations and loads, or to detect trends. Listing Policy Section 3.10 requires that natural background conditions be established. Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against placing this water segment-pollutant combination on the section 303(d) list in the Water Quality Limited Segments category. This conclusion is based on the staff findings that: 1. The data used satisfy the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy. 2. The data bused do not satisfy the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy. Quarterly samples do not capture the seasonal and annual variability expected in streamflows and constituent concentrations in streams of the Lahontan Region. 3. Sampling frequency was insufficient to establish natural background conditions and therefore does not meet the requirements of Listing Policy Section 3.10.. 4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
Regional Board Staff Decision Recommendation: | No new data were assessed for this assessment cycle. The conclusion reached in the previous cycle remains in same. The Regional Board will update this decision when new data and information become available in a future assessment cycle.

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 20860, Sediment | Region 6
Virginia Creek
LOE ID: | 4985
Pollutant: | Sediment
LOE Subgroup: | Pollutant-Water
Matrix: | Water
Fraction: | None
Beneficial Use: | Cold Freshwater Habitat
Number of Samples: | 4
Number of Exceedances: | 0
Data and Information Type: | Fixed station physical/chemical (conventional plus toxic pollutants)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: | The U.S. Geological Survey sampled suspended sediment in 2002 and 2003 under the Region 6 SWAMP program. Concentrations in four suspended sediment samples ranged from 1 to 12 mg/L. This is an insufficient number of samples to permit definition of the range of natural conditions or assessment of effects on beneficial uses.
Data Reference: | 2007. SWAMP Data for the West Walker River and East Walker River Hydrologic Units
SWAMP Data: | SWAMP
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: | The Lahontan Basin Plan's narrative objective states: "The suspended sediment load and suspended sediment discharge rate of surface waters shall not be altered in such a manner as to cause nuisance or adversely affect the water for beneficial uses."
Objective/Criterion Reference: | Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
Evaluation Guideline: |
Guideline Reference:
Spatial Representation: | One station, "Virginia Creek at Conway Summit," was sampled.
Temporal Representation: | Four quarterly samples were collected.
Environmental Conditions: | Virginia Creek is a tributary of the East Walker River with headwaters near the Sierra Nevada crest. The Conway Summit station may be affected by runoff from a road that parallels the creek upstream. In addition to the Cold Freshwater Habitat beneficial use, Virginia Creek is designated for the Spawning, Reproduction and Development use.
QAPP Information: | The data meet the quality assurance requirements of the SWAMP QAPP.
QAPP Information Reference(s):

DECISION ID | 21234 | Region 6
Virginia Creek

Pollutant: | Specific Conductance
Final Listing Decision: | Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: | Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)(2010)
Revision Status | Original
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: | Pollutant
Regional Board Staff Conclusion: | Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant was considered for placement on the section 303(d) list in a previous assessment cycle. No new information was reviewed for this current assessment cycle. Therefore, the previous conclusion remains unchanged, and is as follows: This pollutant is being considered for placement on the section 303(d) list under section 3.2 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.2 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status. One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. None of the four samples exceed the water quality objective. However, sample numbers do not meet the minimum requirements of Listing Policy Table 3-2. Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against placing this water segment-pollutant combination on the section 303(d) list in the Water Quality Limited Segments category.
Regional Board Staff Decision Recommendation: | No new data were assessed for this assessment cycle. The conclusion reached in the previous cycle remains in same. The Regional Board will update this decision when new data and information become available in a future assessment cycle.

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 21234, Specific Conductance | Region 6
Virginia Creek
LOE ID: | 4983
Pollutant: | Specific Conductance
LOE Subgroup: | Pollutant-Water
Matrix: | Water
Fraction: | None
Beneficial Use: | Municipal & Domestic Supply
Number of Samples: | 4
Number of Exceedances: | 0
Data and Information Type: | Fixed station physical/chemical (conventional plus toxic pollutants)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: | The U.S. Geological Survey measured specific conductance in 2002 and 2003 under the Region 6 SWAMP program. Four field measurements ranged from 56 to 63 uS/cm, and one laboratory measurement was 58 uS/cm. The MCL was not exceeded.
Data Reference: | 2007. SWAMP Data for the West Walker River and East Walker River Hydrologic Units
SWAMP Data: | SWAMP
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: | California Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) apply to ambient waters under the Lahontan Basin Plan's "Chemical Constituents" objective. The MCL for specific conductance is 900 microsiemens per centimeter (uS/cm).
Objective/Criterion Reference: | Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
Evaluation Guideline: |
Guideline Reference: | 2007. SWAMP Data for the West Walker River and East Walker River Hydrologic Units
Spatial Representation: | One station, "Virginia Creek at Conway Summit," was sampled.
Temporal Representation: | Four quarterly field measurements and one laboratory measurement were taken in 2002 and 2003.
Environmental Conditions: | Virginia Creek is a tributary of the East Walker River with headwaters near the Sierra Nevada crest. The Conway Summit station may be affected by runoff from a road that parallels the creek upstream. In addition to the Cold Freshwater Habitat beneficial use, Virginia Creek is designated for the Spawning, Reproduction and Development use.
QAPP Information: | The data meet the quality assurance requirements of the SWAMP QAPP.
QAPP Information Reference(s):

DECISION ID | 22442 | Region 6
Virginia Creek

Pollutant: | Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen (TKN)
Final Listing Decision: | Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: | Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)(2010)
Revision Status | Original
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: | Pollutant
Regional Board Staff Conclusion: | Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant was considered for placement on the section 303(d) list in a previous assessment cycle. No new information was reviewed for this current assessment cycle. Therefore, the previous conclusion remains unchanged, and is as follows: This pollutant is being considered for placement on the section 303(d) list under section 3.1 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.1 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status. One line of evidence is available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. All of the samples are estimated value. No biological data are available for assessment of compliance with the water quality objective for biostimulatory substances. Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against placing this water segment-pollutant combination on the section 303(d) list in the Water Quality Limited Segments category. This conclusion is based on the staff findings that: 1. The data used satisfy the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy. 2. The data used do not satisfy the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy. Quarterly samples do not capture the seasonal and annual variability expected in streamflows and constituent concentrations in streams of the Lahontan Region. 3. No biological data are available to assess compliance with the objective for biostimulatory substances. The chemical data cannot be assessed using Table 3.1 of the Listing Policy. 4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
Regional Board Staff Decision Recommendation: | No new data were assessed for this assessment cycle. The conclusion reached in the previous cycle remains in same. The Regional Board will update this decision when new data and information become available in a future assessment cycle.

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 22442, Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen (TKN) | Region 6
Virginia Creek
LOE ID: | 21342
Pollutant: | Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen (TKN)
LOE Subgroup: | Pollutant-Water
Matrix: | Water
Fraction: | Total
Beneficial Use: | Cold Freshwater Habitat
Number of Samples: | 4
Number of Exceedances: | 0
Data and Information Type: | Fixed station physical/chemical (conventional plus toxic pollutants)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: | The U.S. Geological Survey sampled Virginia Creek in 2002 and 2003 under the Region 6 SWAMP program. One of four samples for total Kjeldahl nitrogen was an estimate, one was below the detection level, and concentrations in the remaining samples were 0.12 and 0.15 mg/L.
Data Reference: | 2007. SWAMP Data for the West Walker River and East Walker River Hydrologic Units
SWAMP Data: | SWAMP
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: | The Lahontan Basin Plan's objective for biostimulatory substances states: "Waters shall not contain biostimulatory substances in concentrations that promote aquatic growths to the extent that such growths cause nuisance or adversely affect the water for beneficial uses."
Objective/Criterion Reference: | Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
Evaluation Guideline: |
Guideline Reference: | 2007. SWAMP Data for the West Walker River and East Walker River Hydrologic Units
Spatial Representation: | One station, "Virginia Creek at Conway Summit," was sampled.
Temporal Representation: | Four quarterly samples were taken in 2002 and 2003.
Environmental Conditions: | Virginia Creek is a tributary of the East Walker River with headwaters near the Sierra Nevada crest. The Conway Summit station may be affected by runoff from a road that parallels the creek upstream. In addition to the Cold Freshwater Habitat beneficial use, Virginia Creek is designated for the Spawning, Reproduction and Development use.
QAPP Information: | The data meet the quality assurance requirements of the SWAMP QAPP.
QAPP Information Reference(s):

DECISION ID | 22441 | Region 6
Virginia Creek

Pollutant: | Turbidity
Final Listing Decision: | Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)
Last Listing Cycle's Final Listing Decision: | Do Not List on 303(d) list (TMDL required list)(2010)
Revision Status | Original
Impairment from Pollutant or Pollution: | Pollutant
Regional Board Staff Conclusion: | Regional Board Conclusion: This pollutant was considered for placement on the section 303 (d) list in a previous listing cycle. No new information was reviewed for this current assessment cycle. Therefore, the previous conclusion remains unchanged, and is as follows: This pollutant is being considered for placement on the section 303(d) list under section 3.2 of the Listing Policy. Under section 3.2 a single line of evidence is necessary to assess listing status. Two lines of evidence are available in the administrative record to assess this pollutant. None of the samples exceeds the California Maximum Contaminant Level. The Lahontan Basin Plan's narrative turbidity objective is a non-degradation objective, and sample numbers are insufficient to establish baseline conditions or detect trends as required under Listing Policy Section 3.10. Based on the readily available data and information, the weight of evidence indicates that there is sufficient justification against placing this water segment-pollutant combination on the section 303(d) list in the Water Quality Limited Segments category. This conclusion is based on the staff findings that: 1. The data used satisfy the data quality requirements of section 6.1.4 of the Policy. 2. The data used do not satisfy the data quantity requirements of section 6.1.5 of the Policy. Quarterly samples do not capture the diel, seasonal and annual variability expected in streamflows and turbidity values in streams of the Lahontan Region. 3. None of 4 samples exceeded the Maximum Contaminant Level and this does not exceed the allowable frequency listed in Table 3.2 of the Listing Policy. However, the minimum sample number requirements of Table 3.2 are not met. It is not possible to determine whether the narrative turbidity objective was exceeded because the requirements of Listing Policy Section 3.10 were not met. 4. Pursuant to section 3.11 of the Listing Policy, no additional data and information are available indicating that standards are not met.
Regional Board Staff Decision Recommendation: | No new data were assessed for this assessment cycle. The conclusion reached in the previous cycle remains the same. The Regional Board will update this decision when new data and information become available in a future assessment cycle.

Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 22441, Turbidity | Region 6
Virginia Creek
LOE ID: | 4988
Pollutant: | Turbidity
LOE Subgroup: | Pollutant-Water
Matrix: | Water
Fraction: | None
Beneficial Use: | Municipal & Domestic Supply
Number of Samples: | 4
Number of Exceedances: | 0
Data and Information Type: | Fixed station physical/chemical (conventional plus toxic pollutants)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: | The U.S. Geological Survey measured turbidity in 2002 and 2003 under the Region 6 SWAMP program. Four turbidity measurements ranged from <0.1 to 2 NTU. The MCL was not exceeded.
Data Reference: | 2007. SWAMP Data for the West Walker River and East Walker River Hydrologic Units
SWAMP Data: | SWAMP
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: | California Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) apply to ambient waters under the Lahontan Basin Plan's "Chemical Constituents" objective. The MCL for turbidity is 5 NTU.
Objective/Criterion Reference: | Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
Evaluation Guideline: |
Guideline Reference:
Spatial Representation: | One station, "Virginia Creek at Conway Summit," was sampled.
Temporal Representation: | Four quarterly samples were collected in 2002 and 2003.
Environmental Conditions: | Virginia Creek is a tributary of the East Walker River with headwaters near the Sierra Nevada crest. The Conway Summit station may be affected by runoff from a road that parallels the creek upstream. In addition to the Cold Freshwater Habitat beneficial use, Virginia Creek is designated for the Spawning, Reproduction and Development use.
QAPP Information: | The data meet the quality assurance requirements of the SWAMP QAPP.
QAPP Information Reference(s):
Line of Evidence (LOE) for Decision ID 22441, Turbidity | Region 6
Virginia Creek
LOE ID: | 4987
Pollutant: | Turbidity
LOE Subgroup: | Pollutant-Water
Matrix: | Water
Fraction: | None
Beneficial Use: | Cold Freshwater Habitat
Number of Samples: | 4
Number of Exceedances: | 0
Data and Information Type: | Fixed station physical/chemical (conventional plus toxic pollutants)
Data Used to Assess Water Quality: | The U.S. Geological Survey measured turbidity in 2002 and 2003 under the Region 6 SWAMP program. Four turbidity measurements ranged from <0.1 to 2 NTU.
Data Reference: | 2007. SWAMP Data for the West Walker River and East Walker River Hydrologic Units
SWAMP Data: | SWAMP
Water Quality Objective/Criterion: | The narrative objective from the Lahontan Basin Plan states "Waters shall be free of changes in turbidity that cause nuisance or adversely affect the water for beneficial uses. Increases in turbidity shall not exceed natural levels by more than 10 percent."
Objective/Criterion Reference: | Water Quality Control Plan for the Lahontan Region (as amended)
Evaluation Guideline: |
Guideline Reference:
Spatial Representation: | One station, "Virginia Creek at Conway Summit," was sampled.
Temporal Representation: | Four quarterly samples were collected in 2002 and 2003.
Environmental Conditions: | Virginia Creek is a tributary of the East Walker River with headwaters near the Sierra Nevada crest. The Conway Summit station may be affected by runoff from a road that parallels the creek upstream. In addition to the Cold Freshwater Habitat beneficial use, Virginia Creek is designated for the Spawning, Reproduction and Development use.
QAPP Information: | The data meet the quality assurance requirements of the SWAMP QAPP.
QAPP Information Reference(s):